BMW i8 Review: Truly Remarkable Hybrid Electric Supercar

The BMW i8 looks like a car from the future. It has excellent performance for a hybrid and good fuel economy for a sports car. The futuristic sports car rivals both the Tesla Model S and the Tesla Model X. Unfortunately, its major downside is its price tag.

Pros and Features. The BMW i8 is an exotic futuristic sports car. It is very much a head turner with its flamboyant styling. The i8 features innovate engineering. Its plug-in gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain can last up to 15 miles on battery power alone. Its lithium-ion battery pack only requires 1.5 hours for full charging.

The 2017 model has exceptional fuel economy. It also has an exceptional performance for a hybrid. Its design is futuristic and very sleek.

The i8's power comes from a turbocharg1.5-liter inline three-cylinder engine. This is paired with an electric motor and a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, similar to the ones used my Tesla Model S and Tesla Model X. The car features a six-speed automatic transmission. The gas engine powers the rear wheels while the electric motor powers the front wheels. Both the engine and motor can produce up to 357 horsepower in an all-wheel drive configuration.

Cons. The sports car's design is too "out there." While some owners would appreciate the nods and stares from people, the car just stands out too much. The 2017 model also has a futuristic price tag. Its performance is not able to match traditional sports cars within the same price range.

What's New? The 2017 BMW i8 is available in the Protonic Red Edition. This bundles unique paint, distinctive wheels, custom seats, and special body trim.

The BMW i8 has a Giga World option for laser LED headlights and a full-leather interior. There is also a Tera World option that adds a leather engine cover and other frivolities. The Giga World option and the Tera World option cost $2000 and $4500, respectively.

Pricing. The supercar only has one model. The 2017 i8 2dr Coupe AWD (1.5L 3cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 6A) has an MSRP of $152,495.

Verdict. The i8 is not something that would be traditionally released by the German company. BMW loyalists will probably be interested in this hybrid electric supercar. The car is truly remarkable and is worth the price tag for most people who can afford it.The car's look and added features are also a big plus for a real standout car.